Jason Jones, Titans Defensive End, Fined $15,000 For Hit On Orton

By TERESA M. WALKER, Associated Press

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Tennessee defensive end Jason Jones says the NFL has fined him $15,000 for his hit on Denver quarterback Kyle Orton.

Jones said Wednesday he will appeal, hoping to reduce the penalty.

Jones was flagged for unnecessary roughness in last week's 17-14 win over Denver. He had an open path to Orton and hit the quarterback just after Orton threw a pass. But Jones' face mask hit Orton in the head, drawing a 15-yard penalty.

The Tennessean reports that in response to the NFL fine, Jones said, "I thought the fine was a little hefty. I think Orton was acting a little bit, but the refs are going to protect the players."